A jib crane is an overhead light to heavy load lifting machine that is used for repetitive lifting and moving tasks. Jib cranes are adaptable and can be easily paired with overhead bridge cranes to expand their functionality. Jib cranes are available in different weight capacities with simpler designs ranging from a few tonnes to hundreds of tonnes. They increase production by improving safety, reducing injuries, cutting operational time, and increasing the productivity of the workers. ABCO Engineers is a leading Jib Crane manufacturer in Bangalore manufacturing a wide range of jib cranes as per the client's requirement.
This article covers jib crane design, types, components, and applications.

Jib crane design

Overall jib crane design configuration is simple with fewer parts compared to workstation cranes, bridge cranes, or gantry cranes. Jib cranes are simpler to operate and require less maintenance.

A jib crane is mounted on pillar support to lift and move the loads repeatedly. Based on their load handling capacity their design configuration varies and they are classified into different types.

Jib crane components

Mast/pillar :

It is a vertical beam that holds the crane and other components.

Reach/Boom :

It is a horizontal beam on which the trolley moves front and back.

Movable Hoist :

The hoist that is used to lift, move and drop the load.

Trolley :

The trolley carries the hoist, wire rope, and hook along the entire length of the boom.

Rotation :

Jib cranes are designed to lift loads and rotate. The range of motion depends on the type of jib crane.

Electrification :

Cranes operate on electric power and electric collector rings allow continuous 360' boom rotation.

Controls :

A push-button controller is used to control the movement of the crane during its operation.

Rotation lock :

This is a feature used to lock the rotation of the crane if it is operating close to a wall or other objects.

Jib crane types

Below are the 9 types of jib cranes based on their design and capabilities.

1. Free Standing Jib Crane

This jib crane is commonly found in manufacturing industries and has free-standing system mounts via three different options; baseplate mounted, insert mounted, and insert sleeve mounted.

2. Articulating Jib Crane

Articulating jib cranes offers a range of movement compared to free-standing jib crane.

3. Workstation Jib Crane

Workstation jib cranes provide clean movement, rotation with ease, and a portable base.

4. Articulating Jib Crane

Articulating jib crane doesn't require a special foundation and is used in conjunction with a portable base.

5. Tool Solutions Jib Crane

Tool solutions jib crane is a light version of jib crane offering easy movement, and easy adjustment with free standing.

6. Mast Type Jib Crane

Mast-type jib crane is floor supported and rotates 360' with the support from a bottom and top bearing assembly.

7. Wall Cantilever Jib Crane

A wall cantilever jib crane is ideal for use along walls/columns and has maximum lift and power rotation.

8. Wall Bracket Jib Crane

Wall bracket jib crane provides easy rotation and is used where there is plenty of headroom.

9. Aluminum Wall Bracket Jib Crane

The aluminum wall bracket jib crane is similar to the wall bracket jib but has an aluminum boom.

Jib crane applications

Jib cranes are widely used in industries that include manufacturing, shipping, construction, warehousing, and supply storage as their operation/production requires repetitive tasks of lifting and moving weights. Jib cranes are very helpful in the assembly process and remove strain on workers helping faster and more efficient production. They help in faster loading and unloading of containers in the shipping industry. The huge construction project cannot be completed without the use of jib cranes as they move stacks of material easily. Warehouses are equipped with jib cranes to increase their production and cut operating time and costs.